The subspecies is a form of G.minus, differing only in its shorter pedicel, hygroscopic exoperidium, the rays of which when dry fold under or over the endoperidium, and somewhat finer markings of the spores. The plant is merely a sub-hygroscopic form of G.minus, agreeing closely in other features. Two collections possess spores 3.5-4um diameter, whereas in the others they are the same diameter as G.minus, namely 4.5-6.5um. It has been found impracticable to separate the small spored form, since plants are identical in other respects. The same variation occurs in G.minus.

DISTRIBUTION: North America; South Africa; Australia. New South Wales: Coolamon, det. by Lloyd as Geaster arenarius (1). South Australia: Wirrealpa; Monarto South; Ooldea ; National Park; Beaumont (1). Victoria: Near Myperfeld (4).

TYPE LOCALITY: Florida, North America.